Preparing for an appointment

You or your child might be referred to a doctor trained in heart conditions (cardiologist).

What you can do

• Write down any symptoms you or your child has, including any that may seem unrelated to the reason why you scheduled the appointment.
• Make a list of all your medications, vitamins and supplements.
• Write down important medical information, including other health conditions you or your child may have.
• Write down key personal information, including any recent changes or stress in your life.
• Write down questions to ask your doctor.
• Find out if your family has a history of heart disease.

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions. Being ready to answer them may leave time to go over points you want to spend more time on. You may be asked questions such as:

• When did you first notice symptoms? Do they come and go or do you always have them?
• Does anything seem to improve or worsen these symptoms?
• Do you have a family history of congenital heart disease?
• Did you have diabetes or a viral infection, such as measles, during your pregnancy?
• Did you take any medications during pregnancy?
• Did you use tobacco or smoke during pregnancy?

Questions to ask your doctor

Preparing a list of questions can help you make the most of your time with your doctor. For atrioventricular canal defect, some basic questions to ask your doctor include:

• What's the most likely cause of my symptoms or my baby's symptoms?
• What tests are needed? Is there any special preparation for them?
• What kind of treatment do you recommend?
• How can we manage other health problems together with atrioventricular canal defect?

In addition to the questions that you've prepared to ask your doctor, don't hesitate to ask other questions during your appointment.